Best trails in Exmoor National Park
Exmoor National Park is made of open moorland and has 55 kilometers of incredible coastline. Visitors can explore the rocky headlands, ravines, waterfalls, and towering cliffs. With its huge waterfalls and caves, this dramatic coastline has become an adventure playground for both climbers and explorers.
Top trails
- (787)•Moderate•2.5 mi•Est. 1–1.5 hrThis is a beautiful circular coastal walk near the cliff-top town of Lynton in Exmoor, Devon. The route leads you through the spectacular Valley of Rocks with its impressive geology and feral goats, following a stretch of the coastal path along the impressive high cliffs. Heading into the town of Lynton, you’ll cross the cliff railway before exploring the town and then returning to the valley. Even from the car park, it is easy to see why this dry valley is known as the Valley of Rocks,...
- (374)•Moderate•4.6 mi•Est. 2.5–3 hrThis trail takes in scenic paths and lovely views as you make your way from Lynmouth, through the woods beside the East Lyn, past Watersmeet, up to Countisbury, where you take in some refreshments, and back to the start via the coastal path and the river mouth. Take care on the rougher sections, especially in wetter conditions when the paths are muddy and slippery, and along the roads and at the road crossings, where you will need to be aware of vehicles. Appropriate footwear is...
- (354)•Moderate•5.1 mi•Est. 2.5–3 hrStarting in Lynton, the trail heads along the coastal path passing The Valley of Rocks and Wringcliff Bay where you can enjoy great views out to sea before climbing inland and winding through the farmlands, returning to the start via the road. Take care on the rougher sections, especially in wetter conditions, and along the narrow roads where you will need to be aware of vehicles.
- (334)•Hard•9.7 mi•Est. 5.5–6 hrStarting from Lynmouth, take the path alongside the river to Watersmeet, which is a charming National Trust tearoom and shop. The route then takes the fishermans path alongside the shop up to Countisbury church before a glorious walk along the coast path back to Lynmouth. From here you can either go back to the car (you will have done around 6 miles) or ascend to Lynton via the footpath or cliff railway. Head past the town hall, left into Crossmead, right at the end and straight on through...
- (305)•Easy•2.3 mi•Est. 1–1.5 hrThis is a fantastic circular trail taking you to visit the iconic Tarr Steps clapper bridge and meander along the River Barle in Exmoor National Park. The simple route crosses this impressive ancient bridge before following a riverside journey through the woodland, a designated National Nature Reserve that runs alongside the River Barle. The Tarr Steps are a clapper bridge across the River Barle, that dates back to around 1000 BC. According to an old story, the Tarr Steps were created by...
- (283)•Moderate•4.4 mi•Est. 2.5–3 hrEnjoy this seaside and countryside trail taking in a mix of sights and terrains as you make your way round. This includes views over the Bristol Channel and the climb up to the tops of Little and Great Hangman. Take care on the rougher sections of this trail, especially in wetter weather. Appropriate footwear is advised. Care is also needed for the road sections of this trail.
- (301)•Moderate•5.9 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrThis is a wonderful circular route in Exmoor National Park along the Bristol Channel and surrounding woodland. The views of the coast are breathtaking year-round and you can even encounter a beautiful waterfall. There are many adjoining paths to explore if you wish to shorten or lengthen your route. Dogs are also welcome on this route.
- (243)•Moderate•4.5 mi•Est. 2–2.5 hrThis trail begins with a bit of a historical tour. You can choose to quickly walk the first paved part of the route, or to go more slowly and take in local sites like the Yarn Market (left over from when the wool industry thrived in this region) or detour to the castle. Cross the River Anvill via the Gallox Bridge. Take in the beautiful scenery and take a second to remember that this spot was once known by the name Gallows’ Bridge. As the route moves away from the river it gains elevation....
- (202)•Moderate•9.9 mi•Est. 4.5–5 hrThe South West Coast Path (SWCP) is the longest long-distance walking route in the UK and a designated National Trail. It spans an impressive 1,014 kilometres (630 miles) along the coastline of England's southwest peninsula, starting in Minehead in Somerset and winding its way through the rugged landscapes of Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset before concluding at South Haven Point. The route is well marked and accessible at various points, making it possible to tackle in shorter sections or as a...
- (153)•Hard•13.7 mi•Est. 8–8.5 hrEnjoy a section of the UK’s longest and most treasured National Trail, the South West Coast Path, from Lynmouth to Combe Martin. This long-distance walking route spans an impressive 1,014 kilometres (630 miles) along the coastline of England's southwest peninsula, starting in Minehead in Somerset and winding its way through the rugged landscapes of Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset before concluding at South Haven Point. This section of the route involves a couple of challenging climbs and a...
